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So far, six Tongan and three Samoan gangs with a combined membership of 15 to 200 have been identified in Utah. These gangs have been involved in such criminal activities as homicides, drive-by shootings, robberies, and burglaries--usually committed under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Listening to Reggae and hardcore gangster rap and drawing graffiti also play an important role in gang life. Being bilingual, gang members often use their native language to confuse or deceive police officers. Officers should, therefore, inform suspects under interrogation not to converse among each other in Tongan language or Samoan. If the suspects claim not to speak English or have a heavy accent, use of a translator who is sympathetic to the police may be advisable. Possible ways of rehabilitating gang members include informing parents of their juvenile's gang involvement, incarcerating hardcore leaders or returning them to the islands, beginning preventive efforts when the children are still young, using Polynesian community leaders as positive role models, and involving school and religious representatives in rehabilitative/preventive efforts. A translation of the Miranda Rights in Tongan language is appended.

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